In its own strange way, All Is Bright pulls you in even as it frustrates. This is far from a picture-perfect Christmas story, mind you, but there is a spirit in its celebration of disappointment that is quite special.

Directed by Phil Morrison (Junebug) from a lackluster script by Melissa James Gibson, All Is Bright coasts entirely on the formidable talent of its cast, though Giamatti merely offers another variation on the irascible persona he’s been cultivating since Sideways, while Rudd is ultimately defeated by his character’s shapelessness.

There are tones of 1970s shaggy realism that are interrupted by moments of character-driven shtick. The wistful scenes aren’t rich enough to engross you and the comedy isn’t clever enough to make a difference.

Awkward banter, a lack of narrative thrust and concentrated character deep-digging, and a performance by Sally Hawkins as a Russian maid that seems beamed in from another movie all contribute to the cinematic equivalent of a half-baked fruitcake.

It's not a perfect movie, but the performances are truly first rate. Very funny and surprisingly touching. I appreciate that they actuallyIt's not a perfect movie, but the performances are truly first rate. Very funny and surprisingly touching. I appreciate that they actually shot New York for New York that's commitment. Definitely worth your time.…Full Review »

This is two hours of time lost from your life. I like these actors but this is a pointless movie with no story and no end. Not sure what theThis is two hours of time lost from your life. I like these actors but this is a pointless movie with no story and no end. Not sure what the point of the entire movie was, it was just angry banter and a few lame character interactions and not much else. I highly suggest passing on this project.…Full Review »

i found some interesting little scenes in there....still even if there was a hilarious montage of them stealing things for a whole hour iti found some interesting little scenes in there....still even if there was a hilarious montage of them stealing things for a whole hour it would remain miserable....-JRA…Full Review »